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NEWS | April 17, 2013

Special duty attracts Airmen

By Airman 1st Class Joshua R. M. Dewberry 11th Wing Public Affairs

The Air Education and Training Command Special Duty Recruitment Team held a career day at the Joint-Base Andrews theater and at the Joint Base Anacostia Bolling-Stewart theater on April 16.

"Special duties are an excellent way for Airmen to gain a breadth of experience. When they have completed their tour, Airmen get to take what they learned back to their career field," said Master Sgt. Michael Hall, an 11th Wing career assistance advisor and the event coordinator.

The special duty positions discussed include military training leader, military training instructor, recruiter, professional military education instructor, flight attendant, enlisted aide, defense courier and U. S. Air Force Honor Guard. These career fields are open to active-duty enlisted members.

The AETC career day is held annually and is hosted by career advisors at every installation.

Special duty tours usually have a three to four year commitment. Most Airmen return to their previous career field after their special duty tour, bringing increased knowledge and experience they gain.

"These assignments enhance skill sets, enhance the Air Force and train future leaders and mentors," said Chief Master Sgt. Ernest Chapman, AETC superintendent.

Chapman was one of the speakers here at career day and had an important message for the Airman in attendance.

"We try to get people to come out of their comfort zones and consider special duty assignments for a career broadening opportunity," said Chapman. "Special duty assignments better Airmen by developing better leadership skills, teaching them time management, and to better connect with their fellow Airmen."

The base theater was packed full of Airmen seeking career opportunities.

"I'm open to anything," said Airman 1st Class Devid Wawo, 779th Medical Group medical logistician. "I just want to try something different down the road, see what's available to me so I can gain experience, branch out, and get as much out the military as I can."